Egypt to introduce biometric verification to address misuse of SIM cards

Egypt's National Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (NTRA) is set to implement biometric verification measures to tighten the process of identifying mobile phone line holders. This move aims to strengthen security in the SIM card registration process and prevent unauthorized registration of lines. In cooperation with the four mobile operators, the NTRA plans to introduce biometric verification mechanisms through mobile operator phone applications, which will allow line holders to verify their identity more securely.

The new biometric verification system will help ensure that the data entered for a SIM card registration matches the actual user of the line, thereby preventing instances where lines are registered with citizens' data without their knowledge. This initiative is part of a broader effort to control mobile phone line registration more tightly, following complaints about unauthorized registrations.

Under the new procedures, mobile operators will send text messages to existing line holders, instructing them to visit mobile operator branches to sign new contracts in their names. If line holders fail to complete the contracting process within the specified timeframe, their lines will be permanently deactivated. This identity verification process is not limited to new lines; it extends to existing lines as well, forming part of a larger initiative to reorganize the data of current line holders.

The new biometric verification mechanisms will offer citizens a way to manage mobile phone lines registered in their names but not in their possession. By making biometric verification available through mobile phone company applications, some verification procedures will be transferred from physical branches to digital channels in the future, as announced by the relevant authorities.